Haveli-land

Trip Start Sep 28, 2005
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Trip End Jun 24, 2006


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Flag of India  ,
Tuesday, December 13, 2005

12/13, Mandawa

Miles travelled: 24642

We've travelled west into the state of Rajasthan, to a small village called Mandawa. Interesting driving. Even more so than in Egypt or Africa, the concept of "safe passing distance" has no meaning -- three cars abreast on a 2-lane road with oncoming traffic approaching was not an uncommon sight. And as far as I can tell, when 2 cars are headed in the same direction, the vehicle in front has right of way, no matter what they may do next. Plus, "in front" doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle has to be completely in front of another, as long as your nose is somewhat ahead of another car, then you can feel free to slow down, turn right or left or head in any direction and those behind you are obliged to avoid hitting you. As our guide says, to drive in India you need 3 things: good horn, good brakes, and good luck. So far, so good, as we haven't been in any accidents so far.

Mandawa is a quaint area known for its craftwork in textiles and jewelry. We stayed in two different "heritage hotels" -- the first was a converted 18th-century mansion (haveli) with wonderful painting and mirror work decoration; the second was a "desert resort" where the accommodations were cute mud-hut cottages. These were definitely enjoyable and unique places to stay. We got to see a number of other havelis and take a look at some of the intricate woodwork and painting on these former houses of rich townspeople.
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